The Seismology Division of the Geophysical Institute of the Ministry of National Infrastructure will simulate an earthquake in the southern Negev Thursday by detonating 80 tons of explosive material. The experiment, financed by the U.S. Defense Department, is a joint project with the University of Hawaii, and is part of a scientific project intended to improve seismological and acoustic readings in Israel and its environs (up to a 1,000 km/621 mile radius).

The experiment intends to improve scientists’ understanding of sound waves in the atmosphere. Scientists will then be able to fine-tune Israel’s seismological equipment to give advance warning of earthquakes. Measurements will also be taken in other countries, including Cyprus, Greece, France, and Germany.